Practice Manager Psychology and Programmes at Ara Poutama Aotearoa (Department of Corrections), Waikato

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Permanent opportunity available, with flexibility around working arrangements (including part-time hours and working days)
• Provide regional practice leadership across psychology and programmes in the central region
• Work closely with the Chief Psychologist and regional leaders to drive quality and improvement

Mō te tūnga | About the role

We are seeking a Registered Psychologist for the role of Practice Manager Psychology and Programmes. The role reports to the Chief Psychologist and is based in the Waikato or Bay of Plenty region.

This is a pivotal position that contributes to the design and development of psychological and rehabilitative services at both regional and national levels. The role plays a key part in shaping and implementing long-term strategies and initiatives, while creating strong working relationships across the organisation.

The successful applicant will have a sound understanding of Hōkai Rangi, the Department's organisational strategy, which supports transformative and intergenerational change for those in our care, particularly in addressing the overrepresentation of Māori.

This role supports the delivery of therapeutic programmes and treatment interventions, strengthens practice delivery, promotes the use of core disciplines, and encourages a culture of continuous improvement and learning. It also serves as a vital link between the Chief Psychologists' Office and the region.

The focus of practice delivery is on how Corrections professionals engage effectively with the people in our care, and how we collaborate across services to achieve the best outcomes for all.

Mōu | About you

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• Registered Psychologist (applications will be considered from Psychologists at Step 7 and above) with experience working within Ara Poutama Aotearoa and a good understanding of the Corrections operating environment.
• Experience supporting the delivery and implementation of psychological services and rehabilitation programmes, with a practical understanding of what works in this setting.
• Working knowledge of rehabilitation, reintegration, and risk management practice, including familiarity with assessment approaches used in Corrections.
• Strong judgement and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to work through complex practice or system issues and support appropriate solutions.
• Strong relationship and communication skills, with the ability to work constructively across psychology, programmes, and stakeholders, and an understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in practice.

Ngā painga | The benefits

The salary range is $132,361 - $152,208 per annum. Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role.

Mō mātou | About us

Join Ara Poutama Aotearoa - Department of Corrections, where your work will contribute to improving public safety, reducing re-offending, and address the overrepresentation of Māori in correctional facilities. As a values-led organisation, we use the principles of rangatira (leadership), manaaki (respect), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), and whānau (relationships) to guide our work and achieve the goals of our Hōkai Rangi strategy.

We value inclusion and diversity in our workforce, and as a Public Service organisation we are committed to building a workforce that reflects the public we serve. We strive to make our recruitment process fair, and we encourage you to discuss reasonable accommodations with us if required.

Tono ināianei | Apply Now

To submit an application and view the position description, click the apply link. All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency – applications received via email will not be considered.

When applying, submit a tailored CV and a cover letter describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience and the alignment to our work.

Applications close on: Sunday 25th October

If you have any questions or want to learn more about a career with us, contact Tom.Nicholas@corrections.govt.nz, or visit careers.corrections.govt.nz.